In pictures: Microsoft's Australian Windows 8 launch

All the sights from the Australian Windows 8 launch, including Surface tablets and other impressive hardware

Microsoft today launched Windows 8 in Australia, showcasing the new operating system's interface, apps and social features to a room full of journalists at Sydney's Hordern Pavilion. We rocked up in style, as you can see from the first picture, courtesy of Dell, which sent a Ferrari 360 Spider to pick us up. Dell also gave us a first-hand look at the XPS 12 convertible notebook. We'll bring you a full review of the XPS 12 very soon.

From the red Ferrari to the blue carpet.

Journalists collect their name badges.

Journalists mingle before the start of the launch.

The stage is set.

Microsoft Australia's managing director, Pip Marlow.

Product manager, Deeps DeSilva.

Finally, [[artnid:440187|we get our hands on the Surface RT]].

See our [[artnid:440187|hands-on article]] for all the details.

Tech journos playing with the Surface.

Jessica Watson was at the event. She is the youngest person to sail unassisted around the world, in addition to being a Windows 8 ambassador.

Sony's all-in-one touch device has a built-in battery and can be carried from room to room even while it's still running. Its screen folds down flat and is perfect for playing two-player games, among other tasks.

One of the journos has a crack at the touchscreen controls.

Acer's Aspire S7 was on hand. It has a conventional notebook style with a touchscreen. [[artnid:439677|We reviewed the 13.3in version and we liked it]].

The ASUS Taichi was also there. It has a screen on either side of its lid. See more information in our [[artnid:440042|preview]].

Toshiba's U925t hybrid Ultrabook. It has a screen that slides over the keyboard for use as a laptop or as a tablet.

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